Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin has once again found himself at the center of crypto controversy after a viral video showed him kneeling before a robot and making a peculiar “meow” sound. The clip, which quickly spread across X.com, triggered a mix of amusement and frustration within the crypto community. Some commentators called it “sad,” while others hurled expletives at the Ethereum visionary. Amid the online uproar, Buterin has remained silent, leaving many to speculate on the meaning behind the moment.

While some saw the incident as another quirky display from Buterin, others connected it to Ethereum’s uncertain future, especially given Ether’s recent price struggles. Since briefly reclaiming the $4,000 mark in December 2024, Ether has plummeted nearly 55%, now trading at $1,833. Crypto figures like "The Count of Monte Crypto" have expressed more concern about Ethereum’s price than Buterin’s behavior, while others mocked his attempts to discuss public goods funding. The backlash highlights the tension between Buterin’s idealistic approach to crypto and traders’ frustrations over market volatility.

Beyond price concerns, Buterin’s eccentricity continues to draw attention. From Iggy Azalea mocking his singing at TOKEN2049 to his ambiguous political stance, the Ethereum co-founder often defies crypto norms. He has distanced himself from Trump’s pro-crypto stance while criticizing figures like former SEC chair Gary Gensler. Whether Buterin’s vision for Ethereum will withstand market pressures and community skepticism remains to be seen, but for now, his viral “meow” moment has cemented its place in crypto lore.